July 29, 2024
lindsay@westmorelandchamber.com
Westmoreland County Food Bank: August 2024 Non-Profit of the Month
The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is extremely proud to present the Non-Profit of the Month for August to the Westmoreland County Food Bank. Under the incredible leadership of Jennifer Miller, President/CEO, the Westmoreland County Food Bank has made a significant impact in fighting food insecurity, serving nearly 18,000 individuals and families throughout Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
By acquiring foods through local donations, USDA commodities, and government food assistance programs, Jennifer and her exceptional team ensure that at-risk individuals of all ages have access to nutritious fresh foods and non-perishable items. The Westmoreland County Food Bank is part of Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries that together make up the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, serving people in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.
According to Jennifer, “We are proud of what we have accomplished over the past 40 years – providing better quality food, expanding the quantity and variety of foods sourced through our Food Pantry Distribution Program, and expanding our reach through new and innovative programs such as the Operation Fresh Express program and Military Share. As well as ensuring that our most vulnerable do not have to know the anguish of hunger through the Pennsylvania Senior Food Box Program, the Weekend Backpack Program, and the program that started forty years ago when we opened our doors, the Children’s Summer Meals Program.”
Since 2022, the Westmoreland County Food Bank has seen incredible and ongoing financial support from businesses, foundations, individuals, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Westmoreland County Board of Commissioners. With $4.4 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, they have been able to increase their reach within the county, ensuring that their best ideas can be brought forward and pivoting into the future.
Thanks to the bulk buying power of the Westmoreland County Food Bank, they can maximize donated dollars, making generous contributions go further in the fight against hunger. Many companies and organizations support the Food Bank through volunteering, food drives, and more. However, everyone can do their part, including individual donations. Whether someone chooses to make a one-time donation or sign up for a monthly contribution, every dollar helps the Food Bank ensure that individuals and families throughout Westmoreland County continue to have access to the nutrition they need to lead healthier lives. In addition to many food drive and donation programs, the Westmoreland County Food Bank is launching a 9/11 Week of Service in September to honor all the men and women who make sacrifices and place their lives on the line to help and save others.
We commend the Westmoreland County Food Bank for their unwavering dedication and incredible impact on our community. Their commitment to ensuring no one goes hungry is an inspiration to us all. To learn more how you can get involved through donating or volunteering, please visit https://westmorelandfoodbank.org/
